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My dog's eye is swollen on and off. Could it be cherry eye or irritation?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Small (up to 22lb) | Male | unneutered | 6 months and 12 days old | 19 lbs

His eye has been getting swollen on and off.. like it comes and then goes back to normal.. he blinks a lot when it happens and he ends up having to close his eye. does this look like cherry eye or something that may need surgery? It's normally a lot worse than these pics. The vet told us to come in on Tuesday but I'm so worried and feel sick to my stomach that I really would just like to know what you think this could be until I go in.

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Lauren Jones VMD

Answered By Lauren Jones VMD

Veterinarian

Published on May 6th, 2017

I believe I just responded to your other question (https://www.petcoach.co/question/?id=293456), but did not see the photos. Based upon these photos, it appears that Coco's third eyelid is certainly inflamed/irritated. It does not quite resemble a cherry eye in the photos, but simply looks inflamed. The third eyelid can become inflamed for many causes, the primary one being allergies (to fleas, food or the environment). It can also become inflamed as a result of other inflammatory issues in the eye (corneal ulcers or uveitis). If Coco is rubbing at his eye at all, make sure he is wearing an e-collar (cone) until his appointment. As long as his eye does not dramatically get worse, causing him to squint, you should not need to rush to a vet immediately as I had previously mentioned in my other answer. I hope that all goes well!
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Related Answers from Veterinarians

  • Answered By Lauren Jones VMD

    Veterinarian

    Published on May 6th, 2017

    Coco's eyelid swelling certainly does sound most compatible with an allergy - whether to food, fleas or environmental factors. Licking and chewing on paws is also a common sign of allergies. (As a side note, it may take at least 6-8 weeks to determine if the diet changes has actually helped with any possible food allergies.) However, other possible causes of his eyelid swelling could be related to a dry eye condition (KCS), eye infection, or a corneal ulcer. I would recommend taking him to a different vet today since your regular vet is closed for the next 5 days. Coco likely needs a full eye exam to stain his cornea to check for signs of an ulcer as well as checking his tear production to determine if he has a dry eye condition. The vet may need to start Coco on either oral or ophthalmic medications to help with allergies and/or inflammation. Eyes are delicate structures and respond much better when issues are addressed immediately. I hope that he is feeling better soon!

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    1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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